Help Wisconsin Officials Decide How to Use its Mental Health Block Grant Funds

The federal government requires that each state establish a council to advise on use of its mental health block grant funds. According to its website, the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health has taken that requirement several steps further. It “evaluates and reviews the mental health system’s programs toward improved client outcomes and the adequacy of mental health services in the state.”

The WCMH provides several opportunities to make your voice heard. Advocates may apply to serve on the council. According to the website, 50 percent of members are consumers and/or family members. All meetings are open to the public and each provides an opportunity for public comment.

In September, members took an annual tour of county mental health programs. Minutes of each meeting are posted. Among topics covered recently were school-based mental health programs, suicide prevention, and use of peer specialists. Members were preparing to consider how to advocate for mental health programs in the state budget.

Next meeting is November 16 from 10-3 at Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, 1801 Aberg Street. For more information, click here.